Melton Borough has played a unique role in the historical development of rural middle England, shaping the fabric of the landscape, the economy and the community which exist today. The Borough is especially renowned for its rural tradition, heritage, country pursuits, bustling market town and picturesque villages; with the combination of old and new creating both interest and variety. The market town of Melton Mowbray is home to manufacturers, research and educational institutions of national importance. The town also has a long established association with foxhunting, pork pies and Stilton cheese, it is a popular and lively place to visit, especially on market days and has a rich and varied heritage. Melton's history is still evident today if one looks above the modern shop frontages and at buildings such as the Anne of Cleves' House, a gift from King Henry VIII to his divorced wife in the mid 16th century. The cathedral-sized St. Mary's Church dates from 1170. Known as the stateliest and most impressive of all Leicestershire churches, its 100 foot tower dominates the town.
This church forms part of the Framland church trail along with 14 other churches in the 'Framland area'. Copies of this leaflet are available from Melton Tourist Information Centre, Melton Mowbray.
Outside the town, the Borough has a rural feel: its peaceful countryside rivalling the Cotswolds with well-treed rolling green hills, valleys, unspoilt villages, hamlets, gated roads and old village churches, constructed in mellow local ironstone. |
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